Katherine “Kat” Westendorf has signed a college letter-of-intent to continue her education and soccer career at Shawnee State University, Portsmouth, Ohio. She will major in athletic training.

She was a four-year letter earner in soccer playing at center midfielder and striker. She also lettered in basketball. On the soccer field she was a three-time Fort Ancinet Valley Conference Buckeye and Cardinal Division all-star and an all-city selection. She was chosen by her soccer teammates as the Barons’ most valuable player and in basketball she earned the Courage Award.

“She is a hard worker and a leader off and on the field. She plays very solid,” said her soccer mentor Amy Kemmer.

Two soccer games stand out in her mind as highlights of her prep career. “My sophomore year I scored the only goal of the game when we beat Glen Este,” she said. Last year we beat Anderson 2-1 and I really enjoyed that.”

Amelia

Kat, as she likes to be called, singled out some very important people in her life.

"My (parents Steve and Robyn) and sisters (Rachael and Rebekah) were always very supportive . . . my grandparents (Jim and Joanie Westendorf and Joann Robertson) were my biggest fans...My best friend Heather Coorey is very important...coach Kemmer pushed me through my high school years in sports."

She continued, "I have some family and friends who used to go to Shawnee State and they recommended it to me. I visited there and I liked everything about it. I liked all the soccer girls that I met there, too."

"She based her decision to go to Shawnee State on its location, its education, and the girls soccer program and we're happy with her decision," said Kat's mom.

"This is very exciting. I believe she will step right in and contribute to the program right away," said Kat's dad.